BAU distributes high-yield carrot and tomato seeds to farmers free of cost

ছবিঃ সিএনআই

BAU Correspondent:

The Department of Horticulture at Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), in collaboration with Standard Chartered Bank, organized a field-level training program for farmers on carrot and tomato cultivation, along with distribution of seeds and seedlings. During the event, 3,000 tomato seedlings and 50 grams of carrot seeds per farmer (sufficient for planting on two decimals of land) were distributed.

The program took place on Saturday (November 8) at 12:30 pm in Char Nilkhiya, adjacent to the university, with participation from around 40 farmers.

Professor Dr. Md. Harun Or Rashid, project director of the initiative titled “Development and dissemination of nutrient-rich colored carrot and tomato varieties resilient to adverse environments for enhanced food security”, said the program was organized under this project.

The seminar was presided over by Professor Dr. Md. Hammadur Rahman, Director of the BAU Research Center (BAURES). Special guests included Professor A.S.M. Golam Hafiz Kennedy, member of the Bangladesh Public Service Commission (PSC) and Secretary-General of the Bangladesh Agricultural Economists’ Association, Professor Dr. Md. Golam Rabbani, former Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and co-PI of the project, Professor Dr. Md. Rostam Ali, Director of BAU ICT Cell, project director Professor Dr. Md. Harun Or Rashid, and other faculty members.

Professor Dr. Md. Harun Or Rashid highlighted that BAU is supporting farmers in char areas to cultivate high-value, nutritious crops like tomatoes and carrots, which will provide economic benefits. Scientists and students are assisting farmers with problem-solving and technology support, ensuring the project continuously contributes to improving farmers’ livelihoods.

Professor Dr. Md. Hammadur Rahman noted that while the current market price of most vegetables ranges from Tk 60–80, carrots now sell for over Tk 100, with tomatoes also in high demand. Cultivating these crops will thus be more profitable for farmers. He emphasized the importance of good quality seeds, noting that while the project provided seeds this year, farmers can collect seeds next year and reap further benefits. He reassured that Bangladesh Agricultural University will always support farmers.

Professor A.S.M. Golam Hafiz Kennedy said carrots are popular vegetables with numerous disease-resistance qualities and high market value. Scientific cultivation and proper pest management can maximize profits and even allow for future export of carrots from Bangladesh. He stressed that excessive fertilizer use does not automatically increase yield and highlighted the importance of market management and seasonal cultivation. The distribution of seeds and fertilizers is therefore a critical part of the program.

Farmer Abdul Halim shared, “We used to think cultivating colored carrots or improved tomatoes would be difficult, but today’s training taught us that with the right seeds, care, and timely fertilizer application, good yields are achievable. University teachers provided hands-on training, and we hope to start cultivating these varieties in the next season.”

Another farmer, Md. Rafiqul Islam, said, “BAU researchers have shown us how to increase production at low cost. Now we can cultivate scientifically instead of by guesswork, and we hope these new carrot and tomato varieties will fetch good market prices.”